We first began our investigation into the motion of objects by describing their motion in terms of vectors. We also investigated how an object's motion can be illustrated by graphical means -- position, velocity and acceleration-time graphs provide us with a wealth of information. Our next venture into the kinematics realm will be to use mathematical equations to communicate/predict the motion of an object. When attempting to solve problems using kinematic equations, follow the sequence below:
Carefully read the problem
Visualize or draw the situation
Write down the given information
Write down what is being asked of you
THINK! How are you going to approach the problem? This is a time consuming step and hence the need for homework/practice drills.
Consider the equation you will use. Ask yourself if it is applicable to use the equation in the given situation.
Calculate and then reflect... does the answer make sense.
- Carefully read the problem
- Visualize or draw the situation
- Write down the given information
- Write down what is being asked of you
- THINK! How are you going to approach the problem? This is a time consuming step and hence the need for homework/practice drills.
- Consider the equation you will use. Ask yourself if it is applicable to use the equation in the given situation.
- Calculate and then reflect... does the answer make sense.
- Don't forget to communicate the units!!
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